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Avanceña ALV, Brody C, Chhoun P, Tuot S, Yi S. Connecting Female Entertainment Workers in Cambodia to Health Care Services Using mHealth: Economic Evaluation of Mobile Link. JMIR Form Res 2024; 8:e52734. [PMID: 39052328 DOI: 10.2196/52734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mobile Link is a mobile phone-based intervention to increase access to, and use of, health care services among female entertainment workers in Cambodia who face higher risks for specific diseases and gender-based violence. A multisite randomized controlled trial showed that Mobile Link connected female entertainment workers with outreach workers for information and escorted referrals after 6 months but did not lead to statistically significant improvements in HIV and sexually transmitted infection testing, contraceptive use, and condom use. OBJECTIVE This study aims to conduct a 3-part economic evaluation of Mobile Link to understand its costs, value, and affordability. METHODS We conducted cost, cost-effectiveness, and budget impact analyses of Mobile Link using cost and outcomes data from the Mobile Link trial and other sources. For the cost analysis, we estimated the total, per-person, and incremental costs of Mobile Link compared with usual care. Using probabilistic decision-analytic models, we estimated the 1-year cost-effectiveness of Mobile Link from payer and combined payer and patient perspectives by converting selected primary and secondary outcomes from the trial to disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) averted. Finally, we estimated the financial costs of scaling up Mobile Link's messaging and outreach services to 70% of female entertainment workers in 5 years. RESULTS The incremental costs of Mobile Link were US $199 from a payer perspective and US $195 per person from a combined payer and patient perspective. With an average of 0.018 (95% predicted interval -0.088 to 0.126) DALYs averted, Mobile Link's cost-effectiveness was US $10,955 per DALY from a payer perspective (US $10,755 per DALY averted from a payer and patient perspective). The costs of Mobile Link would have to decrease by 85%, or its effectiveness would have to be 5.56 times higher, for the intervention to meet the upper limit of recommended cost-effectiveness thresholds in Cambodia (US $1671 per DALY averted). The 5-year cost of scaling Mobile Link to 34,790 female entertainment workers was estimated at US $1.64 million or US $46 per person per year. CONCLUSIONS This study provided a comprehensive economic evaluation of Mobile Link. We found that Mobile Link is not likely to be cost-effective unless its costs decrease or its effectiveness increases. Scaling up Mobile Link to more female entertainment workers is estimated to cost less than the costs of the trial. Given the importance of linking female entertainment workers to essential services, future research should focus on enhancing the effectiveness of Mobile Link or developing new mobile health interventions for this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03117842; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03117842.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anton L V Avanceña
- Health Outcomes Division, College of Pharmacy, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dell Medical School, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Carinne Brody
- Public Health Program, College of Education and Health Sciences, Touro University California, Vallejo, CA, United States
| | - Pheak Chhoun
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Sovannary Tuot
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanity, Royal University of Phnom Penh, Phnom Pehn, Cambodia
- Department of Community and Global Health, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Siyan Yi
- KHANA Center for Population Health Research, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
- Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Udenigwe O, Omonaiye O, Yaya S. Gender transformative approaches in mHealth for maternal healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review. Front Digit Health 2023; 5:1263488. [PMID: 38026837 PMCID: PMC10662097 DOI: 10.3389/fdgth.2023.1263488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background This review focuses on studies about digital health interventions in sub-Saharan Africa. Digital health interventions in sub-Saharan Africa are increasingly adopting gender-transformative approaches to address factors that derail women's access to maternal healthcare services. However, there remains a paucity of synthesized evidence on gender-transformative digital health programs for maternal healthcare and the corresponding research, program and policy implications. Therefore, this systematic review aims to synthesize evidence of approaches to transformative gender integration in digital health programs (specifically mHealth) for maternal health in sub-Saharan Africa. Method The following key terms "mobile health", "gender", "maternal health", "sub-Saharan Africa" were used to conduct electronic searches in the following databases: PsycInfo, EMBASE, Medline (OVID), CINAHL, and Global Health databases. The method and results are reported as consistent with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses). Data synthesis followed a convergent approach for mixed-method systematic review recommended by the JBI (Joanna Briggs Institute). Results Of the 394 studies retrieved from the databases, 11 were included in the review. Out of these, six studies were qualitative in nature, three were randomized control trials, and two were mixed-method studies. Findings show that gender transformative programs addressed one or more of the following categories: (1) gender norms/roles/relations, (2) women's specific needs, (3) causes of gender-based health inequities, (4) ways to transform harmful gender norms, (5) promoting gender equality, (6) progressive changes in power relationships between women and men. The most common mHealth delivery system was text messages via short message service on mobile phones. The majority of mHealth programs for maternal healthcare were focused on reducing unintended pregnancies through the promotion of contraceptive use. The most employed gender transformative approach was a focus on women's specific needs. Conclusion Findings from gender transformative mHealth programs indicate positive results overall. Those reporting negative results indicated the need for a more explicit focus on gender in mHealth programs. Highlighting gender transformative approaches adds to discussions on how best to promote mHealth for maternal health through a gender transformative lens and provides evidence relevant to policy and research. Systematic review registration PROSPERO CRD42023346631.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogochukwu Udenigwe
- School of International Development and Global Studies, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Olumuyiwa Omonaiye
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Institute for Health Transformation, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC, Australia
- Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research—Eastern Health Partnership, Eastern Health, Box Hill, VIC, Australia
| | - Sanni Yaya
- School of International Development and Global Studies, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Perinpanathan T, Maiya S, van Velthoven MHH, Nguyen AT, Free C, Smith C. Mobile phone-based interventions for improving contraception use. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2023; 7:CD011159. [PMID: 37458240 PMCID: PMC10363274 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011159.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Contraception provides significant benefits for women's and children's health, yet many women have an unmet need for contraception. Rapid expansion in the use of mobile phones in recent years has had a dramatic impact on interpersonal communication. Within the health domain text messages and smartphone applications offer means of communication between clients and healthcare providers. This review focuses on interventions delivered by mobile phone and their effect on use of contraception. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the benefits and harms of mobile phone-based interventions for improving contraception use. SEARCH METHODS We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was August 2022. SELECTION CRITERIA We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) of mobile phone-based interventions to improve forms of contraception use amongst users or potential users of contraception. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were 1. uptake of contraception, 2. uptake of a specific method of contraception, 3. adherence to contraception method, 4. safe method switching, 5. discontinuation of contraception and 6. pregnancy or abortion. Our secondary outcomes were 7. road traffic accidents, 8. any physical or psychological effect reported and 9. violence or domestic abuse. MAIN RESULTS Twenty-three RCTs (12,793 participants) from 11 countries met our inclusion criteria. Eleven studies were conducted in high-income resource settings and 12 were in low-income settings. Thirteen studies used unidirectional text messaging-based interventions, six studies used interactive text messaging, four used voice message-based interventions and two used mobile-phone apps to improve contraception use. All studies received funding from non-commercial bodies. Mobile phone-based interventions probably increase contraception use compared to the control (odds ratio (OR) 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06 to 1.60; 16 studies, 8972 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). There may be little or no difference in rates of unintended pregnancy with the use of mobile phone-based interventions compared to control (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.38; 8 trials, 2947 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Subgroup analysis assessing unidirectional mobile phone interventions versus interactive mobile phone interventions found evidence of a difference between the subgroups favouring interactive interventions (P = 0.003, I2 = 88.5%). Interactive interventions had an OR of 1.71 (95% CI 1.28 to 2.29; P = 0.0003, I2 = 63%; 8 trials, 3089 participants) whilst unidirectional interventions had an OR of 1.03 (95% CI 0.87 to 1.22; P = 0.72, I2 = 17%; 9 trials, 5883 participants). Subgroup analysis assessing high-income versus low-income trial settings found no difference between groups (subgroup difference test: P = 0.70, I2 = 0%). Only six trials reported on safety and unintended outcomes; one trial reported increased partner violence whilst another four trials reported no difference in physical violence rates between control and intervention groups. One trial reported no road traffic accidents with mobile phone intervention use. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS This review demonstrates there is evidence to support the use of mobile phone-based interventions in improving the use of contraception, with moderate-certainty evidence. Interactive mobile phone interventions appear more effective than unidirectional methods. The cost-effectiveness, cost benefits, safety and long-term effects of these interventions remain unknown, as does the evidence of this approach to support contraception use among specific populations. Future research should investigate the effectiveness and safety of mobile phone-based interventions with better quality trials to help establish the effects of interventions delivered by mobile phone on contraception use. This review is limited by the quality of the studies due to flaws in methodology, bias or imprecision of results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanaraj Perinpanathan
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Shilpa Maiya
- Society for Education, Action and Research in Community Health (SEARCH), Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, India
| | | | - Amy T Nguyen
- Department of Research, Darkness to Light, Baltimore, North Charleston, South Carolina, USA
| | - Caroline Free
- Faculty of Epidemiology and Population Health, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Chris Smith
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan
- Department of Clinical Research, Faculty of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Guni JN, Wanjala SW, Manguro G, Gichuki C, Lim MS, Pham MD, Luchters S, Orwa J. Using social practice theory in measuring perceived stigma among female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya. BMC Public Health 2023; 23:972. [PMID: 37237349 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-15809-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Perceived stigma is a complex societal phenomenon that is harboured especially by female sex workers because of the interplay of a myriad of factors. As such, a precise measure of the contribution of different social practices and characteristics is necessary for both understanding and intervening in matters related to perceived stigma. We developed a Perceived Stigma Index that measures the factors that greatly contribute to the stigma among sex workers in Kenya, and thereby inform a framework for future interventions. METHODS Social Practice Theory was adopted in the development of the Perceived Stigma Index in which three social domains were extracted from data collected in the WHISPER or SHOUT study conducted among female sex workers (FSW), aged 16-35 years in Mombasa, Kenya. The three domains included: Social demographics, Relationship Control and Sexual and Gender-based Violence, and Society awareness of sexual and reproductive history. The factor assessment entailed Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA), and the internal consistency of the index was measured using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. RESULTS We developed a perceived stigma index to measure perceived stigma among 882 FSWs with a median age of 26 years. A Cronbach's alpha coefficient of 0.86 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.85-0.88) was obtained as a measure of the internal consistency of our index using the Social Practice Theory. In regression analysis, we identified three major factors that contribute to the perceived stigma and consists of : (i) income and family support (β = 1.69; 95% CI); (ii) society's awareness of the sex workers' sexual and reproductive history (β = 3.54; 95% CI); and (iii) different forms of relationship control e.g. physical abuse (β = 1.48; 95%CI that propagate the perceived stigma among the FSWs. CONCLUSION Social practice theory has solid properties that support and capture the multi-dimensional nature of perceived stigma. The findings support the fact that social practices contribute or provoke this fear of being discriminated against. Thus, in offering interventions to curb perceived stigma, focus should fall on the education of the society on the importance of acceptance and integration of the FSWs as part of the society and the eradication of sexual and gender based violence meted out on them. TRIAL REGISTRATION The trial was registered in the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry, ACTRN12616000852459.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stanley Wechuli Wanjala
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Social Sciences, School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | | | - Caroline Gichuki
- Institute for Human Development, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Megan Sc Lim
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- School of Population Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- Melbourne school of global and population health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Minh D Pham
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV AIDS Research, CeSHHAR, Harare, Zimbabwe
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, Liverpool, UK
| | - James Orwa
- Department of Population Health, Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Kenya
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Karp C, Moreau C, Shiferaw S, Seme A, Yihdego M, Zimmerman L. Evaluation of the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP) among a nationally representative sample of pregnant and postpartum women Ethiopia. Contracept X 2023; 5:100094. [PMID: 37188150 PMCID: PMC10176025 DOI: 10.1016/j.conx.2023.100094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Rigorous measurement of pregnancy preferences is needed to address reproductive health needs. The London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP), developed in the UK, has been adapted for low-income countries. Psychometric properties of LMUP items remain uncertain in contexts with limited access to and use of health services. Study design This cross-sectional study examines the six-item LMUP's psychometric properties among a nationally representative sample of 2855 pregnant and postpartum women in Ethiopia. Principal components analysis (PCA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) estimated psychometric properties. Hypothesis testing examined associations between the LMUP and other measurement approaches of pregnancy preferences using descriptive statistics and linear regression. Results The six-item LMUP had acceptable reliability (α = 0.77); two behavioral items (contraception, preconception care) were poorly correlated with the total scale. A four-item measure demonstrated higher reliability (α = 0.90). Construct validity via PCA and CFA indicated the four-item LMUP's unidimensionality and good model fit; all hypotheses related to the four-item LMUP and other measurement approaches were met. Conclusions Measurement of women's pregnancy planning in Ethiopia may be improved through use of a four-item version of the LMUP scale. This measurement approach can inform family planning services to better align with women's reproductive goals. Implications Improved pregnancy preference measures are needed to understand reproductive health needs. A four-item version of the LMUP is highly reliable in Ethiopia, offering a robust and concise metric for assessing women's orientations toward a current or recent pregnancy and tailoring care to support them in achieving their reproductive goals.
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Thai YC, Sim D, McCaffrey TA, Ramadas A, Malini H, Watterson JL. A scoping review of digital workplace wellness interventions in low- and middle-income countries. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0282118. [PMID: 36854022 PMCID: PMC9974126 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Digital technology-based interventions have gained popularity over the last two decades, due to the ease with which they are scalable and low in implementation cost. Multicomponent health promotion programmes, with significant digital components, are increasingly being deployed in the workplace to assess and promote employees' health behaviours and reduce risk of chronic diseases. However, little is known about workplace digital health interventions in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs). METHODS Various combinations of keywords related to "digital health", "intervention", "workplace" and "developing country" were applied in Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus, PsycINFO, Scopus and Cochrane Library for peer-reviewed articles in English language. Manual searches were performed to supplement the database search. The screening process was conducted in two phases and a narrative synthesis to summarise the data. The review protocol was written prior to undertaking the review (OSF Registry:10.17605/OSF.IO/QPR9J). RESULTS The search strategy identified 10,298 publications, of which 24 were included. Included studies employed the following study designs: randomized-controlled trials (RCTs) (n = 12), quasi-experimental (n = 4), pilot studies (n = 4), pre-post studies (n = 2) and cohort studies (n = 2). Most of the studies reported positive feedback of the use of digital wellness interventions in workplace settings. CONCLUSIONS This review is the first to map and describe the impact of digital wellness interventions in the workplace in LMICs. Only a small number of studies met the inclusion criteria. Modest evidence was found that digital workplace wellness interventions were feasible, cost-effective, and acceptable. However, long-term, and consistent effects were not found, and further studies are needed to provide more evidence. This scoping review identified multiple digital health interventions in LMIC workplace settings and highlighted a few important research gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Chiann Thai
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Deanna Sim
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tracy A. McCaffrey
- Department of Nutrition, Dietetics and Food, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
- * E-mail: (JLW); (TAM)
| | - Amutha Ramadas
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hema Malini
- Faculty of Nursing, Universitas Andalas, West Sumatra, Indonesia
| | - Jessica L. Watterson
- Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Monash University Malaysia, Selangor, Malaysia
- * E-mail: (JLW); (TAM)
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Philbrick W, Milnor J, Deshmukh M, Mechael P. Information and communications technology use to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence in low- and middle-income countries: An evidence and gap map. CAMPBELL SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2022; 18:e1277. [PMID: 36908839 PMCID: PMC9595343 DOI: 10.1002/cl2.1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of information and communications technologies (ICT) in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) has increased significantly in the last several years, particularly in health, including related areas such as preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) against women and children. While the evidence for ICT effectiveness has grown significantly in the past 5 years in other aspects of health, it has not for effectiveness of using ICT for the prevention and response to SGBV against women and children in LMIC. OBJECTIVES The primary goal of this evidence and gap map (EGM) is to establish a baseline for the state of the evidence connected with the use of ICT for preventing and responding to SGBV against women and children in LMIC. Objectives that contribute to the achievement of this goal are: (1)identifying evidence of effectiveness for the use of ICT targeting the prevention of, and response to, SGBV against women and children in LMIC;(2)identifying key gaps in the available ICT for SGBV prevention and/or response evidence;(3)identifying research methodology issues reflected in the current evidence;(4)identifying any clusters of evidence in one or more ICT interventions suitable for systematic review;(5)identifying enabling factors associated with effective interventions using ICT for the prevention of, and response to, SGBV against women and children in LMIC; and(6)providing a structured and accessible guide to stakeholders for future investment into interventions and research using ICT for SGBV prevention and response in LMIC. SEARCH METHODS The date of the last search from which records were evaluated, and any studies identified were incorporated into the EGM was July 11, 2021. Twenty (20) databases were searched, and identified under "Methods." SELECTION CRITERIA We conducted systematic searches of multiple academic databases using search terms and criteria related to the use of ICT for prevention and/or response to SGBV against women and children. Although excluded, we did consider studies conducted in higher-income countries (HIC) only to provide context and contrast for the EGM discussion of the eligible studies from LMIC. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The EGM search process included five phases: (1) initial search of academic databases conducted by two researchers simultaneously; (2) comparison of search results, and abstract screening by two researchers collaboratively; (3) second screening by reviewing full articles of the studies identified in the first screening by two reviewers independently; (4) comparison of results of second screening; resolution of discrepancies of screening results; and (5) data extraction and analysis. MAIN RESULTS The EGM includes 10 studies published in English of which 4 were systematic, literature or scoping reviews directly addressing some aspect of the use of ICT for SGBV prevention and/or response in women and girls. The six individual studies were, or are being, conducted in LMIC (a condition for eligibility). No eligible studies addressed children as a target group, although a number of the ineligible studies reported on the use of ICT for intermediate outcomes connected with violence against children (e.g., digital parenting). Yet, such studies did not explicitly attach those intermediate outcomes to SGBV prevention or response outcomes. Countries represented among the eligible individual studies include Cambodia, Kenya, Nepal Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Lebanon. Of the 10 eligible studies (individual and reviews), most focused on intimate partner violence against women (IPV). Intervention areas among the eligible studies include safety planning using decision algorithms, educational and empowerment messaging regarding norms and attitudes towards gender-based violence (GBV), multi-media radio drama for social behavior change, the collection of survivor experience to inform SGBV/GBV services, and the collection of forensic evidence connected to the perpetration of SGBV. Thirty-one studies which otherwise would have been eligible for the evidence and gap map (EGM) were conducted in HIC (identified under "Excluded Reviews"). None of the eligible studies reported results related to effectiveness of using ICT in a control setting, for the primary prevention of SGBV as an outcome, but rather reported on outcomes such as usability, secondary and tertiary prevention, feasibility, access to services and other outcomes primarily relating to the development of the interventions. Two studies identified IPV prevention as a measurable outcome within their protocols, but one of these had not yet formally published results regarding primary prevention as an outcome. The other study, while reporting on the protocol (and steps to adapt the ICT application, previously reported as effective in HIC contexts to a specific LMIC context), has not yet as of the date of writing this EGM, published outcome results related to the reduction of IPV. Of the four reviews identified as eligible, two are better characterized as either a literature review or case study rather than as traditional systematic reviews reporting on impact outcomes with methodologically rigorous protocols. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS The evidence baseline for using ICT to prevent and/or respond to SGBV against women and children in LMIC is nascent. Promising areas for future study include: (1) how ICT can contribute changing gender and social norms related to SGBV and primary prevention; (2) mobile phone applications that promote safety and security; (3) mobile technology for the collection and analysis of survivors' experience with SGBV response services; and (4) digital tools that support the collection of forensic evidence for SGBV response and secondary prevention. Most striking is the paucity of eligible studies examining the use of ICT in connection with preventing or responding to SGBV against children. In light of the exponential increase in the use of ICT by children and adolescents, even in LMIC, greater attention should be given to examining how ICT can be used during adolescence to address gender norms that lead to SGBV. While there appears to be interest in using ICT for SGBV prevention and/or response in LMIC, other than several ad hoc studies, there is little evidence of if, and how effective these interventions are. Further inquiry should be made regarding if and how interventions proven effective in HIC can be adapted to LMIC contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Philbrick
- Sitara InternationalAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
- Health, Equity and Rights, CAREAtlantaGeorgiaUSA
| | - Jacob Milnor
- Oswaldo Cruz FoundationOswaldo Cruz InstituteRio de JaneiroBrazil
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Simmelink AM, Gichuki CM, Ampt FH, Manguro G, Lim MSC, Agius P, Hellard M, Jaoko W, Stoové MA, L'Engle K, Temmerman M, Gichangi P, Luchters S. Assessment of the lifetime prevalence and incidence of induced abortion and correlates among female sex workers in Mombasa, Kenya: a secondary cohort analysis. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e053218. [PMID: 36207033 PMCID: PMC9557798 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Prevalence of lifetime-induced abortion in female sex workers (FSWs) in Kenya was previously estimated between 43% and 86%. Our analysis aimed at assessing lifetime prevalence and correlates, and incidence and predictors of induced abortions among FSWs in Kenya. METHODS This is a secondary prospective cohort analysis using data collected as part of the WHISPER or SHOUT cluster-randomised trial in Mombasa, assessing effectiveness of an SMS-intervention to reduce incidence of unintended pregnancy. Eligible participants were current FSWs, 16-34 years and not pregnant or planning pregnancy. Baseline data on self-reported lifetime abortion, correlates and predictors were collected between September 2016 and May 2017. Abortion incidence was measured at 6-month and 12-month follow-up. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to assess correlates of lifetime abortion and discrete-time survival analysis was used to assess predictors of abortions during follow-up. RESULTS Among 866 eligible participants, lifetime abortion prevalence was 11.9%, while lifetime unintended pregnancy prevalence was 51.2%. Correlates of lifetime abortions were currently not using a highly effective contraceptive (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.76 (95% CI=1.11 to 2.79), p=0.017) and having ever-experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) (AOR=2.61 (95% CI=1.35 to 5.06), p=0.005). Incidence of unintended pregnancy and induced abortion were 15.5 and 3.9 per 100 women-years, respectively. No statistically significant associations were found between hazard of abortion and age, sex work duration, partner status, contraceptive use and IPV experience. CONCLUSION Although experience of unintended pregnancy remains high, lifetime prevalence of abortion may have decreased among FSW in Kenya. Addressing IPV could further decrease induced abortions in this population. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ACTRN12616000852459.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Caroline M Gichuki
- Department of Population Health, The Aga Khan University, Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Frances H Ampt
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Griffins Manguro
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Megan S C Lim
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Paul Agius
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Margaret Hellard
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Doherty Institute and School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Walter Jaoko
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mark A Stoové
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kelly L'Engle
- School of Nursing and Health Professions, University of San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Marleen Temmerman
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Aga Khan University Hospital Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
| | - Peter Gichangi
- International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya, Mombasa, Kenya
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Stanley Luchters
- Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
- Centre for Sexual Health and HIV/AIDS Research (CeSHHAR), Harare, Zimbabwe
- Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, UK
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9
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Macleod CI, Reynolds JH, Delate R. Women Who Sell Sex in Eastern and Southern Africa: A Scoping Review of Non-Barrier Contraception, Pregnancy and Abortion. Public Health Rev 2022; 43:1604376. [PMID: 35646420 PMCID: PMC9131513 DOI: 10.3389/phrs.2022.1604376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: There is a need to hone reproductive health (RH) services for women who sell sex (WSS). The aim of this review was to collate findings on non-barrier contraception, pregnancies, and abortion amongst WSS in Eastern and Southern African (ESA). Methods: A scoping review methodology was employed. Inclusion criteria were: 1) empirical papers from 2) ESA, 3) published since 2010, and 4) addressing WSS in relation to 5) the identified RH issues. Results: Reports of rates of non-barrier contraceptive usage varied from 15% to 76%, of unintended pregnancy from 24% to 91%, and of abortion from 11% to 48%. Cross-cutting factors were alcohol use, violence, health systems problems, and socio-economic issues. Pregnancy desire was associated with having a non-paying partner. Barriers to accessing, and delaying, antenatal care were reported as common. Targeted programmes were reported as promoting RH amongst WSS. Conclusion: Programmes should be contextually relevant, based on local patterns, individual, interpersonal and systemic barriers. Targeted approaches should be implemented in conjunction with improvement of public health services. Linked HIV and RH services, and community empowerment approaches are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catriona Ida Macleod
- Critical Studies in Sexualities and Reproduction, Rhodes University, Makhanda, South Africa
| | | | - Richard Delate
- 2gether 4 SRHR, United Nations Population Fund, Johannesburg, South Africa
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10
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Udenigwe O, Yaya S. Leaving no woman or girl behind? Inclusion and participation in digital maternal health programs in sub-Saharan Africa. Reprod Health 2022; 19:54. [PMID: 35227260 PMCID: PMC8884409 DOI: 10.1186/s12978-022-01358-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Across sub-Saharan Africa where access to adequate maternal healthcare is fraught with myriad challenges, especially for hard-to-reach populations, digital health technologies offer opportunities to improve maternal health outcomes. Digital health can circumvent inefficiencies in the traditional healthcare system and address challenges such as limited access to in-person medical consultations, and poor access to skilled birth attendants and health promotion activities. These benefits notwithstanding, digital health can be exclusionary. Too often, digital maternal health programs are not designed with a focus on equity in distribution nor are they designed from a gender equity standpoint. In this paper, we illustrate exclusionary practices of digital health programs through an extensive literature review of digital maternal health programs across sub-Saharan Africa. Taking an intersectional approach, we discuss how women are most vulnerable and excluded at the intersection of gender, literacy, and disability. Tackling exclusionary practices in digital health is crucial to ensure that no woman or girl is left behind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ogochukwu Udenigwe
- School of International Development and Global Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.
| | - Sanni Yaya
- School of International Development and Global Studies, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada.,The George Institute for Global Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
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11
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Smith C. Improving the evidence base for digital health interventions to increase contraception use. BMJ Health Care Inform 2021; 28:bmjhci-2021-100346. [PMID: 33910924 PMCID: PMC8094326 DOI: 10.1136/bmjhci-2021-100346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chris Smith
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan .,Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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12
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Nabunya P, Byansi W, Damulira C, Bahar OS, Jennings Mayo-Wilson L, Tozan Y, Kiyingi J, Nabayinda J, Braithwaite R, Witte SS, Ssewamala FM. Predictors of Depressive Symptoms and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Among Women Engaged in Commercial Sex Work in Southern Uganda. Psychiatry Res 2021; 298:113817. [PMID: 33636517 PMCID: PMC8005481 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2021.113817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the factors associated with depressive symptoms and post traumatic depressive disorder (PTSD) among economically vulnerable women engaged in commercial sex work (WESW) in southern Uganda. Baseline data from a longitudinal cluster randomized study involving 542 self-identified WESW (18-55 years), recruited from 19 HIV hotspots were analyzed. Hierarchical linear regression modelling was utilized to estimate individual, family-level and economic-level predictors of depressive symptoms and PTSD. Family cohesion, sex work stigma, HIV status, financial distress, household assets, number of children and number of household income earners, were associated with PTSD. Similarly, family cohesion, number of people in the household, HIV status, sex work stigma, financial distress, and household assets, were associated with depressive symptoms. Women engaged in commercial sex work are at a higher risk of HIV and poor mental health outcomes. Sex work stigma and financial distress elevate levels of depressive symptoms and PTSD, over and above an individual's HIV status. Family and economic-level factors have the potential to mitigate the risk of poor mental health outcomes. As such, integrating stigma reduction and economic strengthening components in the programming targeting WESW-a key population, may be critical to address their mental health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Proscovia Nabunya
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - William Byansi
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Christopher Damulira
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Ozge Sensoy Bahar
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Larissa Jennings Mayo-Wilson
- Indiana University School of Public Health, Department of Applied Health Science, 1025 E. 7(TH) Street, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Yesim Tozan
- New York University College of Global Public Health, 14 East 4(th) street, 3(rd) floor. New York, NY 10003, USA.
| | - Joshua Kiyingi
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Josephine Nabayinda
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Rachel Braithwaite
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
| | - Susan S Witte
- Columbia University School of Social Work1255 Amsterdam Avenue, New York, NY 10027, USA.
| | - Fred M Ssewamala
- Washington University in St. Louis Brown School, International Center for Child Health and Development (ICHAD), 1 Brookings Drive, St. Louis, MO 63130, USA.
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